In what ways can we apply Solomon's stewardship of wealth to our lives today? Focus Scripture “Year after year, each visitor would bring his gifts—articles of silver and gold, clothing, weapons, and spices, and horses and mules.” (2 Chronicles 9:24) What Solomon’s Wealth Reveals • God grants resources to accomplish His purposes (1 Kings 3:13) • Material blessing follows a heart set on wisdom and worship (2 Chronicles 1:7–12) • Abundance attracts responsibility—people came seeking counsel as well as giving gifts (1 Kings 10:24) Timeless Principles of Stewardship 1. Recognize God as Owner – “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness…for everything in heaven and on earth is Yours.” (1 Chronicles 29:11–12) 2. Pursue Wisdom before Wealth – Solomon asked for understanding first (1 Kings 3:9). Prioritize godly wisdom in decisions. 3. Receive with Humility, Give with Generosity – Solomon’s table fed many (1 Kings 4:22–23). Generosity reflects God’s character (2 Corinthians 9:11). 4. Invest in Worship and Kingdom Work – He built the temple with the resources God provided (2 Chronicles 2–5). Honor God first (Proverbs 3:9–10). 5. Manage, Don’t Hoard – “Riches do not endure forever.” (Proverbs 27:24) Steward assets with foresight and accountability. 6. Use Influence for Justice – Solomon judged disputes fairly (1 Kings 3:28). Wealth gives a platform to defend the vulnerable (Proverbs 31:8–9). 7. Stay Vigilant against Drift – Later in life Solomon’s heart turned (1 Kings 11:4). Continual dependence on God guards against pride. How to Live This Out Today • Settle Ownership: Start budgets, business plans, and giving goals with prayerful acknowledgment that all belongs to God. • Seek Wisdom Daily: Commit to regular Scripture intake (Psalm 119:97) and wise counsel before financial moves. • Percentage Giving: Determine a generous percentage of income to ministries and the needy; review yearly as God blesses. • Purposeful Spending: Align purchases with callings—tools for work, hospitality, and gospel advance rather than status symbols (Matthew 6:19–21). • Diversify for Stewardship, Not Anxiety: Save and invest prudently (Ecclesiastes 11:2) while trusting God, not the portfolio. • Influence for Good: Advocate for ethical practices in the marketplace, treat employees fairly, and support justice efforts. • Legacy Planning: Write wills and trusts that testify to faith, funding gospel work and caring for family (Proverbs 13:22). • Heart Checks: Schedule periodic reviews—ask whether possessions still serve God’s purposes or have begun to rule the heart (Luke 12:15). |
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